Winged heels and wheels

Inspired by their favourite things – rock and metal music, Jack’s motorbike and their French bulldog – Kris and Jack planned an intimate Scottish castle wedding full of wild autumnal flowers and personal touches. From Kris being walked down the aisle by her furry best friend to Jack’s secret choice of tartan trews, we love that they did things their way!

How did you two meet?

Our story began in 2012. I have lived in the North-east my whole life, Jack moved to the area six years ago after accepting a job offer. Our paths didn’t cross for the first six months, even though we were working for the same company, and we finally met at a work BBQ. Our first real date was a bracing walk along Balmedie beach, where we discovered we both enjoyed the outdoors.

We soon discovered there were many things we had in common including music (we have the same love for rock and metal music and have enjoyed going to many gigs together) and the outdoors – we enjoy going on adventurous walks and stopping for picnics. Now our dog, Wade joins us everywhere we go.

Jack was already a keen snowboarder when we met and he managed to persuade me to take it up. We try and get away every year with friends snowboarding not forgetting the après ski.

What inspired your day?

What we love – autumn, close family and friends, Jack’s motorbike, our dog. Most of all we wanted a fun and chilled out day. I loved that the castle let us put up photos over the fireplaces and little touches that really made it ours for a day.

Our table names were bands we have been to see together, with record sleeves to identify the tables. We used Jack’s favourte beer bottles with candles as table decorations. And my favourite gin as favours, as well as chocolates handmade by a friend. Jack’s Dad made our autumnal cake stand and quaich for the ceremony. Our cake was made by a family friend. My Mum hand knitted the shrug I put on to go out and watch the fireworks display in the evening. So many special touches that really made the day ours.

I made my own wedding stationery. I have an Etsy shop I have just set up, MoonFoxes where I hope to sell bespoke wedding illustrations/invites and orders of service.

The hardest part of the day for me was knowing my Dad couldn’t be there. As no one could replace him I had my furry best friend, Wade walk me down the aisle. Dad was pride of place on the mantelpiece, so I could see him all day.

Tell us about your venue…

Jack is from the local area and knew of the castle but had never been as it’s hidden away and can’t be seen from the road.

We wanted a unique venue that would be appropriate for a small wedding. Glenapp is a gated castle, it felt so magical to have the whole estate just for us for the whole day and night of the wedding. All our guests stayed at the castle so it was like a grand house party. The staff are amazing, so accommodating. Between that and the setting there was no point looking anywhere else.

We love your dress! Tell us more…

I knew what I wanted I just couldn’t find it. I’m very petite and knew I wanted something fitted and strapless but at the same time relaxed for getting on and off a motorbike, and dancing the night away. My dress was ‘Islesboro’ by Enzoani, it was Champagne and Ivory, corded lace and tulle, with a lovely illusion back.

My shoes were my favourite thing ever – my Sophia Webster Evangeline Winged Heels. In my spare time I’m an aeralist, I wanted something on the day that embraced that so Winged Heels were perfect. My hair vines were from Debbie Carlisle and were beautiful but not overpowering.

Jack chose a family tartan and he kept it a secret from me – I had no idea what he would turn up in, so just as well we didn’t have a strict colour scheme.

How did you choose your photographer?

I was actually a bit overwhelmed looking for a photographer, I had a list. When we visited our venue they suggested Paul Walker and as soon as we did our research we knew Paul and Kathryn would be perfect for us.

I liked the relaxed looking style and the candid shots Paul manages to capture. I love we got our personalities across in the photos – Jack’s motorbike, my messy hair after being on the back of the bike and, most importantly, our dog, Wade.

Having a wedding film was a last minute decision – we were not really keen on traditional wedding videos, then I thought this will be such a special day I don’t want to forget anything. Chris and Caroline at Baxter and Ted create such amazing videos – it’s perfect, features our song choices and is fun to watch.

What was your first dance song?

We chose Paramore’s ‘All I Wanted’ for our first song, made even better as Jack’s brother sang our first song for us.

Honeymoon or mini-moon?

Honeymoon to Bali that was fantastic beyond words, so many adventures and special memories to keep forever.

What’s the one truly unforgettable thing about your wedding day?

The setting, intimacy and the fact it felt so right. Our advice is to make the day your own and exactly the way you want it, even if it’s not what people expect.

So much to love and be inspired by here. Thanks for sharing your story with us Kris & Jack, and best of luck with your bespoke wedding illustrations Kris – we love them! x